In an era marked by pandemics, geopolitical tensions, and climate-related disasters, the European Union has taken a bold step forward by adopting the first Preparedness Union Strategy in March 2024. At the heart of this policy lies another initiative, the EU Stockpiling Strategy, which focuses on ensuring the availability of critical goods and materials, including medicines, to face crises both at national and EU-level. This strategy will play a major role in protecting the safety and lives of allergy and airways disease patients.
EFA welcomes the European Commission’s plans for an EU Stockpiling Strategy, and agrees that it needs to be based on an all-hazards, whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. The strategy has the potential to reinforce the EU-wide security of medicine supply and continuity of care, supporting patients’ access to healthcare services.
The European Commission European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (DG ECHO) is in charge of the file and launched a call for evidence on the EU Stockpiling Strategy. EFA responded with patient-centric recommendations for the Commission to consider to make the strategy work for health:
EFA key recommendations for EU stockpiling
- Prioritise patient access to medicines in emergencies
Medicines are fundamental and must remain accessible during crises. EFA highlights that stockpiling should prioritise patients’ straightforward access. The strategy should also especially reflect vaccination to ensure timely and equitable immunisation, especially against crisis caused by pathogens.
- Ensure medicines reach patients
Stockpiling strategies must consider how medicines are delivered, not just their storage. Mobile units and home delivery systems are essential to reach patients who cannot easily access healthcare facilities.
- Include generic and non-allergenic medicines
Generic medicines are cost-effective and allow for larger reserves, making them ideal for stockpiling. Non-allergenic vaccines should also be considered to ensure safe intake and immunisation for patients at risk of severe allergies.
- Guarantee medicine safety and transparency
The EU must monitor expiry dates and maintain cold-chain logistics to ensure medicine safety. Clear, science-based data and public communication is also vital to develop public health literacy, counter misinformation and build public trust.
- Coordinate medicine supply across the EU
A harmonised EU framework is needed to ensure solidarity between Member States is at the core of the EU stockpiling strategy. Coordinated monitoring and distribution can ensure fair access to essential medicines during emergencies.
- Strengthen EU procurement and supply chain resilience
EU procurement practices should prioritise supply chain resilience and emergency responsiveness. Joint EU procurement can help secure better terms and ensure equitable access to critical medicines among Member States.
- Recognise climate hazards in stockpiling plans
Climate change increases demand for respiratory medicines and disrupts supply chains. Stockpiling strategies must be climate-resilient to protect patients during extreme weather events.
EFA calls on the European Commission to put patients at the heart of the EU Stockpiling Strategy. By addressing these recommendations, the EU can build a more resilient, equitable, and patient-centred health emergency preparedness system.
To find out more, read our response to the consultation, here.
Read our resopnse on the EMA Critical Medicines List here.